Menus for seniors with dementia are changing as more studies point the way toward diet patterns that can prevent the development of Alzheimer’s specifically, and prevent or alleviate dementia in general. One particularly promising diet is called MIND, which stands for Mediterranean Intervention for Neurodegenerative Delay. This is distinct from another recently developed diet, which is simply called the Mediterranean diet. Earlier this year, researchers published a study in Alzheimer's and Dementia, which followed 923 subjects aged 58-98 years, over the course of four and a half years. The results are promising, if not conclusive. Even the study participants who adhered only moderately to the diet over the study period had a 35% reduction in the incidence of Alzheimer’s.

How Does it Work?The MIND diet uses foods that are known to support vascular health in general, and that contain nutrients that are proven to slow cognitive decline. It also makes use of foods that have demonstrated an ability to reduce neuron loss and decrease oxidative stress and inflammation.

Foods to Include

Whole Grains – Three times daily

Green Leafy Vegetables – Daily

Other Vegetables – At least once daily

Nuts – Daily

Wine – Daily

Berries – Strawberries and/or blueberries at least twice a week

Beans – Every other day

Fish – At least once weekly

Poultry – At least twice weekly

Olive Oil – In moderation daily

Foods to Restrict or Eliminate

Red meat

Butter And Margarine – Absolutely no more than a Tablespoon a day, less is better

Cheese – Less than one serving a week

Pastries And Sweets

Fried Food – Less than one serving a week

All Fats are not Created EqualResearch has shown for some time now that saturated fats and trans-fats are worse for our general health than polyunsaturated fats or monounsaturated fats. We’re now learning that this pattern also holds true for cognitive health: saturated fats and trans-fats increase the risk of dementia, while polyunsaturated fats and monounsaturated fats reduce the risk. “Bad” fats are found in foods like red meat, fried food, full-fat dairy products, and pastries. “Healthy” fats are in fish, nuts, and plant oils, like olive oil. Putting it into Practice Balancing special diets while staying on budget, and maintaining kitchen efficiency is a serious challenge for care facilities. Of course, you want to give your residents the best nutrition for their health, but implementing changes can cause chaos.